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Surrey Police said the news has come as a shock after showing positive signs of recovery and believe she may have been targeted.

Supt Barnett added her death is being treated as "unexplained" at this time until they receive the post-mortem results.

He said: "Mrs Burgess’s death has come a huge shock to her family and friends as, although she suffered serious injuries, she was showing positive signs of recovery and was talking in hospital.

"We believe she may have been targeted by an opportunistic burglar who took advantage of her front door being open. He got away with her handbag which contained personal items and a small amount of cash."

Police are appealing for anyone who may have seen the incident, or has any information about the man who entered the pensioner's house.

The man has been described as:• White• Of a slim build• Around 5ft 8 to 6ft tall• Light brown hair in a curtains-style. • He was clean shaven and spoke with an English accent